How to Make Money Playing Golf in 2023: 20 Ways to Monetize Your Passion

Reading Time: 14 minutes

If you’re passionate about golf and have ever wondered how to make money playing golf, you’re not alone.

Millions of people enjoy this age-old game, but few turn their hobby into a source of income. Whether you’re a weekend golfer or someone who’s more serious about the sport, opportunities abound to monetize your passion.

Here’s a tip right off the club: Don’t limit yourself to thinking you have to be a pro golfer to make money in this industry. From online coaching to virtual caddie services, there are numerous avenues to explore.

In this article, we’re going to dive into 20 ingenious ways to transform your love for golf into a profitable venture. Let’s tee off!

20 Ways To Make Money Playing Golf

1. Online Coaching

Ever dreamt of making money playing golf without stepping out of your home office? Consider online coaching, where you offer golf lessons via video conferencing. This is perfect for the digital nomad who loves golf and has valuable insights to share.

You could teach various aspects like mastering the swing, golf course strategies, or even the mental game. By recording these sessions, you have the opportunity to package them into full courses. These courses can be an evergreen product, providing consistent income long after you’ve hit “record.”

Strategies for Online Coaching:

• Pre-recorded Lessons: Offer pre-recorded modules on common challenges like choosing golf clubs, reading a golf course, or preparing for golf tournaments.
• Live Q&A Sessions: Arrange weekly live sessions to answer specific questions or analyze players’ techniques in real-time.
• Membership Model: Offer a monthly subscription that includes regular updates, new lessons, and community access.

Product Examples:

• “Master the Swing” Course
• “Golf Course Strategy 101” Video Series
• “Mind Over Golf” Mindfulness Course

2. YouTube Channel

Let’s get visual! Creating a YouTube channel focused on golf can be a lucrative way to make money playing golf. You can cater to your 50+ audience by touching upon issues they care about:

How to maintain stamina during a game, the best golf courses suited for older players, or even tips on playing golf for those who’ve just retired.

The revenue streams are plentiful: ads, sponsorships, and your own merchandise could all be part of your business model.

Strategies for creating and growing your YouTube Channel:

• Monetize via Ads: Once you reach a certain number of subscribers, you can make money from ad revenue.
• Sponsorships: Partner with golf industry brands targeting older demographics.
• Merchandise: Sell branded gear like golf clubs, hats, or even golf balls.

Product Examples:

• Custom-branded Golf Clubs
• Limited-edition Polo Shirts
• Exclusive YouTube Channel Membership with Perks

3. Affiliate Marketing

Who says you can’t make money playing golf while you sleep? With affiliate marketing, your blog or YouTube channel does the hard work for you.

Your primary task is to review golf gear and courses, integrating affiliate links where relevant. This is particularly great for those who already have a sizable online following.

Each time someone makes a purchase through your link, you earn a commission. It’s passive income 101!

Strategies for Affiliate Marketing:

• SEO-Focused Blog Posts: Write blog posts reviewing golf courses or tournaments, optimizing for keywords to attract organic traffic.
• Video Reviews: Create video content that offers deep dives into various golf clubs and gear.
• Newsletter Recommendations: Use your “Unretirement” newsletter to recommend products, using affiliate links.

Product Examples:

• “(Your Brand) Top Picks” Monthly Golf Gear Roundup
• Golf Course Review E-Book with Affiliate Links
• Exclusive Affiliate Deals in Your Free Newsletter

4. Ebooks

If you’re keen to make money playing golf, publishing an ebook could be a hole-in-one for your digital business. Use your expertise to pen a guide specifically designed for the 50+ crowd interested in golf.

Discuss everything from choosing the right golf equipment to how to learn from golf professionals like Tiger Woods. Your ebook could serve as a comprehensive golf instructor that’s just a click away.

Market it on Amazon or on your website, and watch those sales roll in.

Strategies for creating Ebooks:

• Targeted Advertising: Utilize Facebook or Google Ads to reach your target age group interested in golf lessons.
• Bundling: Package your ebook with other services like an online consultation with a golf pro.
• Limited-Time Offers: Promote your ebook at a discount for a limited period to generate initial sales and reviews.

Product Examples:

• “Golfing After 50: A Comprehensive Guide”
• “Masters of the Game: Learning from Golf Pros”
• “Choosing Your Golf Gear: An In-depth Analysis”

5. Virtual Golf Retreats

Who says you need to leave your home to have a golf getaway? Virtual golf retreats are a superb way to combine education, networking, and fun. Teach golf lessons, organize virtual rounds at local golf courses, and allow members to mingle.

This all-in-one package lets you serve as a golf instructor, golf influencer, and even a golf professional.

The beauty? You can pull it all off from the comfort of your home, making a few dollars (or many more) in the process.

Strategies for Virtual Golf Retreats:

• Early Bird Pricing: Offer discounted tickets to early registrants.
• Guest Speakers: Invite golf professionals or influencers to give talks or classes.
• Virtual Goodie Bags: Include downloadable golf lessons, discount codes for golf gear, and more.

Product Examples:

• “Weekend Virtual Golf Academy”
• “Golf Influencer Networking Night”
• “Digital Golf Swag Bag”

6. Golf Podcast

A podcast could be your ticket to being a golf influencer in the audio space. Focus on topics that matter to your audience. Discuss the latest golf equipment, interview golf professionals, and offer tips on improving gameplay.

It’s like giving free golf lessons through earbuds. Monetization comes through ads, sponsored segments from companies that manufacture golf balls, and premium content.

Strategies for Golf Podcasts:

• Sponsorship Deals: Partner with brands in the golf gear space.
• Listener Patronage: Offer premium content via Patreon or a subscription model.
• Cross-Promotion: Use your existing platforms to promote your podcast and vice versa.

Product Examples:

• “Gear Up: The Best Golf Equipment of 2023”
• “Swing Like a Pro: Tips from Golf Professionals”
• “The Fairway Chronicles: Stories from Local Golf Courses”

7. Course Reviews

Think you have to be a professional golfer to make money playing golf? Think again. If you’re a golf enthusiast with a knack for descriptive writing, course reviews could be your golden ticket. Visit local golf courses and write detailed reviews on your blog, exploring everything from the quality of the greens to the types of playing partners you might encounter. The best part? Courses might offer you free golf rounds in exchange for the exposure. It’s a win-win—you get to play golf for free and make money from the generated content.

Strategies for offering Course Reviews:

• Partnerships: Build relationships with local golf course owners to get complimentary or discounted rounds.
• SEO Optimization: Make sure your blog posts are SEO-friendly to draw more traffic.
• Affiliate Links: Use affiliate links for golf companies you mention in the blog, adding another revenue stream.

Product Examples:

• “The Ultimate Guide to Local Golf Courses”
• “The Golf Enthusiast’s Handbook: Reviews and Tips”
• “Top 10 Local Golf Courses Every Player Must Visit”

8. Dropshipping Golf Gear

Why let only pro golfers make all the money when you can start making money playing golf through dropshipping?

Set up an online store targeting the 50-plus demographic, featuring golf gear that solves unique problems they face in the game, like ergonomic golf clubs or sun-protective apparel.

You’ll never have to worry about inventory or shipping; simply partner with suppliers, and they’ll handle the rest.

Strategies for Dropshipping Golf Gear:

• Targeted Ads: Use Facebook and Google Ads targeting the 50-plus demographic who are interested in golf.
• Customer Reviews: Leverage reviews from satisfied customers to build trust and encourage more sales.
• Seasonal Promotions: Use holidays and seasons as opportunities to offer discounts and make more money.

Product Examples:

• “Ergo-Grip Golf Clubs for Seniors”
• “Sun-Protective Golf Apparel”
• “Retractable Mini Golf Tees”

9. Merchandise

If you want to take your golf game to the next level and start making money, consider creating your own branded merchandise.

It’s not just for professional golfers anymore. From T-shirts with catchy golf phrases to custom-branded golf balls, the possibilities are endless. You could even incorporate your blog or channel’s branding to create a cohesive identity.

Selling merchandise can provide another substantial income stream, making you not just a golf enthusiast but a savvy businessperson.

Strategies for Merchandising:

• Limited Editions: Create limited-edition items that create urgency and exclusivity.
• Bundling: Offer bundles of merchandise, like a T-shirt, hat, and branded golf balls, at a discounted price.
• Cross-Promotion: Leverage your blog, YouTube channel, or podcast to promote your merchandise and vice versa.

Product Examples:

• “Drive it Like You Stole it” T-shirts
• Custom-Branded Golf Balls
• “Golf Life” Caps

10. Subscription Boxes

If you’re after a dream job that combines your love for golf and entrepreneurial spirit, look no further. Launching a monthly subscription box service is a creative way to make money playing golf.

Curate boxes filled with golf kits, snacks, and maybe even a pro shop item or two. Target those busy work schedules by offering a convenient, one-stop solution for all things golf.

It’s not just about making a little money; a well-executed subscription box can turn into a full-blown country club in a box!

Strategies for Subscription Boxes:

• Seasonal Themes: Use PGA Tour seasons as inspiration for your monthly boxes.
• Gift Options: Offer gifting options to attract customers during the holiday season or for special occasions.
• Upgrades: Provide options to upgrade to deluxe boxes with exclusive items or club memberships.

Product Examples:

• “The Pro Shop Box: Gear and Snacks”
• “The Country Club Monthly: Lifestyle and Luxury”
• “PGA Tour Fanatic Box: Exclusive Memorabilia”

11. Patreon Membership

Who says you need to play professionally to make extra cash in the golf arena? By setting up a Patreon page, you can offer premium content to die-hard fans willing to pay a monthly fee.

Provide tips, exclusive videos, reduced green fees at partnering courses, and more. It’s like having a country club membership but in digital form.

If you’ve got knowledge to share, Patreon could be your avenue for making money while still getting to play golf.

Strategies for Patreon Memberships:

• Tiered Memberships: Offer different membership levels with varying benefits.
• Exclusive Events: Organize live Q&As or webinars for your Patreon members.
• Early Access: Provide early access to your regular content or exclusive deals on golf kits.

Product Examples:

• “The Fairway Insider: Tips and Strategies”
• “The Pro Swing Club: Video Lessons”
• “The Green Fees Savers: Discount Partnerships”

12. Sponsored Content

Here’s a hole-in-one idea: sponsored content. If you’ve built a significant following online, you could partner with golf brands to produce articles or videos.

Your influence can translate into money playing golf without stepping onto the PGA Tour. It’s an excellent way for those with busy work schedules to still make extra cash on the side, turning your passion into financial gain.

Strategies for Sponsored Content:

• Targeted Brands: Seek partnerships with brands that align with your audience’s interests.
• Track ROI: Use analytics to prove the effectiveness of sponsored content, making it easier to secure future deals.
• Cross-Promotion: Promote your sponsored content across all your platforms for maximum exposure.

Product Examples:

• “Top 10 Golf Kits of 2023: Sponsored by [Brand]”
• “How to Choose Your Golf Gear: Presented by [Brand]”
• “Improving Your Swing: A Video Tutorial Sponsored by [Brand]”

13. Online Tournaments

Turn your love for golf into a digital empire by organizing online tournaments. Use golf simulators to host the competitions, allowing people to participate without ever stepping foot on a driving range.

It’s a fun way to earn money, engage with the golf community, and offer profitable opportunities for participants.

While riches won’t happen overnight, you’ll be setting the foundation for recurring events with substantial entry fees and prizes.

Strategies for Online Tournaments:

• Diverse Tiers: Offer tournaments at different skill levels to attract the broadest audience.
• Prize Sponsors: Partner with golf companies to sponsor the prizes, reducing your costs.
• Social Media Hype: Create buzz around the tournament on social platforms for maximum reach.

Product Examples:

• “The Digital Fairway Open: Amateur Series”
• “The Virtual PGA: Pro Level Tournament”
• “The Range Finder: A Driving Range Simulated Challenge”

14. Golf Travel Planning

Combine your expertise in golf and lifestyle entrepreneurship to offer golf travel planning services. Tailor these travel itineraries for digital nomads, focusing on spots near driving ranges and co-working spaces.

This is more than just suggesting greens; it’s about helping people make the most money while they travel and play. You’re essentially turning their hobby into a cash generator.

Strategies for Golf Travel Planning:

• Digital Nomad Packages: Specialized itineraries that include co-working spaces near golf courses.
• Budget Options: Provide itineraries catering to various budget levels, including those who can’t afford greens fees.
• Group Discounts: Offer discounts for group bookings to attract playing partners.

Product Examples:

• “The Nomad Golfer: A Travel Guide”
• “The Budget Golf Getaway”
• “The Golf Networking Extravaganza”

15. Printables

Selling printables, like golf scorecards and tracking sheets, is an affordable and scalable way to earn money.

While it might not make you rich instantly, it’s a low-entry-fee business that can grow over time.

These are perfect for individuals who love golf but can’t spend enough money on greens fees to play as often as they’d like.

Strategies for Printables:

• Customization: Offer personalized printables for special occasions or milestones.
• Bundling: Package different types of printables together to encourage bulk purchasing.
• Digital Delivery: Opt for a digital delivery model to keep operational costs low.

Product Examples:

• “The Ultimate Golf Scorecard Pack”
• “The Goal-Setter: Golf Edition”
• “The Golf Tracker Bundle”

16. Stock Photos

If you’re a shutterbug, even you can make money by taking and selling high-quality golf photos.

These could be action shots, panoramas of beautiful courses, or even candid snaps at driving ranges.

These photos can be sold as stock photos, providing an alternate avenue for those not into playing in most tournaments but still want to make money in the golf sector.

Strategies for Stock Photos:

• Niche Focus: Concentrate on capturing shots that are less common in stock photo libraries.
• Quality Over Quantity: Prioritize high-resolution, professional-quality photos.
• Seasonal Themes: Update your photo collection according to the season to attract more buyers.

Product Examples:

• “The Fairway Collection: A Stock Photo Bundle”
• “Golf Lifestyle: Candid Moments”
• “The Perfect Swing: Action Shots”

17. Virtual Caddie

Offering a Virtual Caddie service is an ingenious way to combine technology with the age-old game of golf.

Utilizing drone footage or GPS data, you can assist golfers in selecting the best ball for each shot, understanding course dynamics, and improving their overall game.

It’s not just about helping weekend warriors; pro golfers also need insights to enhance their performance. You’re not physically there, but your expert advice can make a big difference, and that’s worth big bucks.

Strategies for venturing as a Virtual Caddie:

• Quality Over Quantity: Focus on delivering precise, actionable advice rather than general tips.
• Flexible Availability: Offer this service during free time and weekends to fit around other commitments.
• Up-to-date Tech: Use the latest drone and GPS technologies to provide accurate data.

Product Examples:

• “The Drone Caddie: Sky-High Insights”
• “GPS Golf Guru: Precision Guidance”
• “The ProAdvisor: Virtual Caddie for Pro Golfers”

18. Golf-themed NFTs

Creating and selling Golf-themed Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) can be a novel way to earn extra money.

From iconic shots to unique golfing moments, these digital assets could attract both golf enthusiasts and tech-savvy investors.

Unlike traditional merchandise, NFTs give buyers digital ownership of a unique item, and that can fetch top dollar.

Strategies for Golf-Themed NFTs:

• Limited Editions: Create scarcity by offering a limited number of each NFT.
• Collaboration: Partner with big companies or pro golfers to increase the NFT’s value.
• Unique Moments: Capture one-of-a-kind golf moments that can’t be replicated.

Product Examples:

• “The Perfect Swing: A Limited Edition NFT”
• “Golf Legends Series: NFTs in Partnership with Pro Golfers”
• “Iconic Courses: An NFT Collection”

19. Social Media Management for Golf Courses

With a good grasp of both the golf industry and digital platforms, you can offer social media management services specifically tailored for golf courses or golf-related businesses.

Not only do you get to spend more time focusing on a game you love, but you’ll also make a little cash on the side.

Golf courses often lack digital savvy; your expertise could fill that void efficiently.

Strategies for Social Media Management:

• Targeting: Aim your services at up-and-coming courses that may not have the budget for big companies.
• Content Calendar: Plan out posts related to tournaments, events, and golf tips.
• Engagement: Focus on creating interactive posts that engage the golf community.

Product Examples:

• “The Digital Fairway: Social Media Management”
• “The GolfGram: Instagram Services for Golf Courses”
• “Fairway Tweets: Twitter Management for Golf Enthusiasts”

20. Online Golf Quizzes and Challenges

Creating online quizzes and challenges related to golf is an inventive way to monetize your expertise.

You could focus on golf history, best practices, or even course knowledge. Players can pay an entry fee to participate, and winners could receive rewards like discount codes for golf gear.

It’s a fun way to make some extra money without the constraints of a course or one challenge.

Strategies for Online Quizzes and Challenges:

• Multi-Level Challenges: Offer quizzes at varying difficulties, attracting a broader audience.
• Partnerships: Team up with golf gear companies to provide enticing prizes.
• Instant Feedback: Provide training and answers immediately after the quiz to add value.

Product Examples:

• “The Ultimate Golf History Challenge”
• “Guess the Course: An Interactive Golf Quiz”
• “The Best Ball Challenge: What’s Your Go-To Golf Ball?”

How to Make Money Playing Golf: Summary

In the digital age, making money in the golf industry isn’t just for professional golfers and country club owners. With the right strategies and a touch of entrepreneurial flair, anyone can turn their passion for golf into a lucrative venture.

The key takeaway here is that your love for golf can indeed be transformed into a source of income. By leveraging technology and tapping into niche markets, you can capitalize on opportunities that fit both your skills and lifestyle.

As you venture into the green pastures of golf-related business opportunities, don’t forget that learning is a lifelong process. We’ve got a plethora of entrepreneurial tips and money-making ideas right here on our blog to guide you every step of the way, such as;

• How to Make Money Podcasting and Build a Lifestyle Business
• 10 Easy Side Hustles to Make Money Today
• 16 Profitable Things to Make and Sell Online Today
• How to Raise Money for a Business: 7 Effective Methods

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to diversify your income streams, make sure to check out the invaluable insights we’ve got lined up for you.

So go ahead, take the plunge, and start making money playing golf today!

How to Make Money Playing Golf: FAQs

How much money can an amateur golfer win?

The amount an amateur golfer can win varies greatly, depending on the type of tournaments entered and sponsorships secured. Some local golf tournaments offer cash prizes ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Higher-profile amateur tournaments can offer even more. However, regulations in many countries state that amateur golfers cannot accept cash prizes; they can only accept non-cash prizes up to a certain value.

Can you make a career in golf?

Absolutely! While becoming a professional golfer is one way to make a career in golf, there are numerous other avenues such as golf instruction, golf course management, and online golf-related ventures. You can also make money playing golf through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and merchandise.

Can you win money in golf tournaments?

Yes, you can win money in golf tournaments, especially if you participate in professional events. Prize pools in these events can range from thousands to millions of dollars. Some amateur tournaments offer cash prizes, but restrictions may apply regarding the acceptance of money.

How can I make my golf course more profitable?

To make your golf course more profitable, consider diversifying revenue streams through memberships, hosting events, and offering exclusive packages. Modernizing your pro shop, improving food and beverage services, and marketing special offers can also contribute to higher profitability.

How can I monetize my golf blog or YouTube channel?

To monetize your blog or YouTube channel, you can use affiliate marketing, sponsorships, and ad revenue. You can also sell digital products like eBooks or online courses that help people improve their golf game.

What are some alternative ways to make money playing golf?

Alternative ways to make money playing golf include offering online coaching, starting a golf podcast, or even organizing virtual golf retreats. With the rise of technology, the possibilities are virtually limitless.

Can I make money reviewing golf courses?

Yes, many golf enthusiasts make money by writing detailed reviews of golf courses, which they publish on their blogs or websites. Some golf course owners may even offer you free rounds for the exposure your review provides.

What golf-related items can I sell online?

From golf gear like clubs and balls to digital products like instruction videos, the options are plentiful. You can also create and sell golf-themed merchandise or even offer specialized golf subscription boxes.

How can social media benefit my golf-related business?

Utilizing platforms like Instagram or Twitter can greatly expand your audience, allowing you to market directly to golf enthusiasts. This can be particularly useful for affiliate marketing, product promotions, and building brand awareness.

Is it possible to make money playing golf part-time?

Absolutely! Many people make money playing golf on the weekends by participating in local tournaments that offer cash or prizes, giving lessons, or selling golf-related products and services.

Can I make a living just by participating in golf tournaments?

Unless you’re an elite professional golfer, relying solely on tournament winnings can be risky. Diversifying your income through teaching, online ventures, or sponsorships is generally advised.

What skills do I need to make money playing golf?

Aside from golfing skills, having a knack for business, a good understanding of online marketing, and some basic tech-savviness can go a long way in helping you make money playing golf.